Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 13, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set as England Faces Argentina, France Takes on Spain

The 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals are set, featuring a highly anticipated clash between England and Argentina, and a European showdown between France and Spain set the stage. England advanced to the final four after Jude Bellingham's brace secured a 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway, though questions lingered about a potential spidercam interference on Bellingham's equalizer sparked debate. Norway's star striker Erling Haaland, who was subbed off late in extra time, saw his World Cup journey end. England manager Thomas Tuchel, despite the win, expressed frustration, calling the performance "lucky", a sentiment not shared by match-winner Bellingham disagreed with the assessment. Declan Rice, who had been battling a sickness bug, was a doubt for the Norway match but ultimately played faced illness. Meanwhile, France and Spain, the top two ranked teams in the world, will face off in the other semifinal top-ranked teams. Spain's Lamine Yamal expressed confidence, stating France should fear them expressed confidence, while Spain's semifinal berth was secured by Mikel Merino's decisive goal against Belgium. Players and coaches are grappling with the impact of hydration breaks, a fixture throughout the tournament a talking point, and FIFA and FIFPRO are in discussions regarding protocols for excessive heat.

Transfer Window Buzzes with Activity and Rumors Across Europe

The summer transfer window continues to be a hive of activity, with several high-profile moves and rumors circulating. Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly close to agreeing a deal for Aston Villa defender Lucas Digne, having met his £10 million ($13. release clause agreed on a deal. Aston Villa are also being linked with a move for Pervis Estupinan targeting Estupinan. In Scotland, the transfer window for the Scottish Premiership is open, with clubs detailing their ins and outs. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill appears resigned to losing midfielders Arne Engels and Daizen Maeda expects departures, while Rangers are reportedly tracking a midfielder from Manchester United monitoring a midfielder. Liverpool have made a significant midfield acquisition, signing England goalkeeper Khiara Keating on a free transfer from Manchester City secured Keating. Elsewhere, Manchester United have completed the signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £50 million completed the signing, though a deal for Ederson has stalled due to a medical issue but could be revisited. Chelsea are reportedly interested in Bologna winger Jonathan Rowe as they seek attacking reinforcements seeking reinforcements.

USWNT to Host World No. 1 Spain, Other International News

The United States women's national team is set to host world No. 1 and reigning World Cup champions Spain for two friendly matches in October scheduled for October. In other international news, South Africa's World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25 passed away. The Italian Football Federation has made significant appointments, hiring Paolo Maldini as technical director and other figures for a national team rebuild. Uruguay's Football Association is in advanced talks to appoint former striker Diego Forlán as interim head coach in talks for coach. Spain has also claimed the Uefa Men's Under-19 Championship, defeating Germany 2-0 in the final.

Player Milestones, Coaching Changes, and Emerging Talents

The 2026 World Cup has also highlighted emerging talents, with players like Diomande, Freeman, and Manzambi being recognized as breakout stars. Meanwhile, the debate continues regarding the format for deciding tied cup games, with alternative suggestions being explored exploring alternatives. The passing of Argentine legend Antonio Rattín at the age of 89 was also noted; Rattín was a pivotal figure in the 1966 World Cup, whose actions contributed to the introduction of yellow and red cards remembering Rattín. the USMNT is already projecting its roster for the 2030 World Cup. In coaching news, Jurgen Klopp has reportedly agreed in principle to become the new head coach of Germany's men's national team.